How Common Is Rabies in Rats?
WouterRabies is a deadly disease that can cause a variety of physical symptoms. The symptoms start off similar to the flu, and progress to coma and eventually death. While there are some survivors, rabies has claimed the lives of more than 59,000 people since its first outbreak in 1960. The best way to prevent this illness is to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have been bitten by a rat.
Although rabies can infect any mammal, it is rare in rats and mice. In the U.S., there have been no rat or mouse rabies cases reported since 1975. The animals that carry rabies don’t usually survive the bite of a larger animal. As a result, it’s not likely that rats or mice will transmit the disease to humans. However, if you’ve ever come into contact with a rat or mouse, you should contact your local health department for advice.
In the United States, it is not common for rats to have rabies because of their small size. However, the South Carolina Department of Health has documented one case in 1980. Although there are no known cases of rats transferring rabies to humans in the United States, rabies can be transmitted to other mammals. While small rodents aren’t at risk for transmitting the disease to humans, they can be infected by a bite or scratch from an infected animal.
Although rats are often found in close proximity to humans, there are many other animals that can carry rabies. In fact, skunks are the second most commonly reported rabid animal in the U.S., and there are three different strains of rabies in skunks.
